The former dancer, who pirouetted into the public consciousness in the Sky One reality show that followed life at Pineapple Dance Studios, will be butching-up as a rugged buccaneer from 10 December to 16 January.

“I’m really excited to have been asked to appear in panto at New Wimbledon theatre this Christmas,” Spence commented. “I should point out though that I’m not playing Wendy and I’m not Tinkerbell, instead I’m going to be playing a very butch pirate and I cannot wait to high-kick and twirl my way on board Captain Hook’s ship.”

Prior to his TV fame, Spence appeared on the West End stage in productions including Cats and Miss Saigon. He has also worked as a dancer for music acts including Take That, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder and The Spice Girls.

Spence is the first celebrity announced for this year’s New Wimbledon theatre pantomime. This year’s production is aiming to emulate the record-breaking success of 2009’s Aladdin, which starred Pamela Anderson, Anita Dobson, Ruby Wax and Paul O’Grady as The Genie Of The Lamp during the course of its run.

Peter Pan tells the story of a magical young boy who takes the Darling children on a enchanting and dangerous journey to Neverland where they meet the Lost Boys, pirates, Captain Hook and a hungry crocodile.

This production will be particularly special for the New Wimbledon theatre, as it is the 100th pantomime to be staged at the venue which celebrates its 100th birthday on Boxing Day.